PSSL Ferry Travel Terms and Conditions

These Terms and Conditions (“Terms”) govern the sale of tickets and the carriage of passengers, luggage, and goods between the ports of Montserrat, Antigua, and Nevis. Services are provided by the Ferry Operator (“the Carrier”) under contract with the Government of Montserrat (collectively referred to as “We”, “Our”, or “Us”).

1. Definitions

  • "Carrier": The vessel owner and/or operator providing the maritime service.
  • "Fare": The cost of transportation only; excludes taxes, refreshments, or incidental expenses.
  • “Passenger”: Any person (except crew) traveling under a valid ticket, including minors.
  • “Ticket”: The physical or electronic proof of payment and contract of carriage.
  • "Force Majeure": Events beyond our control, including weather, sea conditions, strikes, or government acts.

2. General Provisions

  • 2.1 Not a Common Carrier: The Carrier is not a common carrier and reserves the right to refuse carriage to any person or goods at its sole discretion.
  • 2.2 Authority: Anyone booking on behalf of others warrants they have the authority to bind those passengers to these Terms.
  • 2.3 Amendments: We reserve the right to amend these Terms at any time without prior notice.

3. Fares and Tickets

  • 3.1 Validity: Tickets are valid only for the person(s) named. Transfers or modifications incur a $30.00 XCD fee.
  • 3.2 Currency: All prices are quoted in Eastern Caribbean Dollars (XCD).
  • 3.3 Fare Table: (Plus Taxes)
Passenger Category Age Range Round Trip One Way
Adult Over 12 years $450.00 $270.00
Children 3 - 12 years $230.00 $125.00
Infants Under 3 years $50.00 $30.00

4. Mandatory Taxes and Fees

Passengers are responsible for the following statutory charges (subject to change by Government authority):

  • Montserrat Departure Tax: $25 (for stays >24 hours).
  • Antigua Departure Tax: $75 (for stays >24 hours).
  • Montserrat Port Security Charge: $10 (all departing passengers).

5. Check-In and Travel Documents

  • 5.1 Documentation: Passengers must possess valid passports and visas. We are not liable for denied entry or boarding due to improper documentation.
  • 5.2 Deadlines: Check-in opens 2 hours before and strictly closes 30 minutes prior to departure. Late arrivals will be denied boarding without a refund.

6. Luggage and Cargo

  • 6.1 Allowance: 2 pieces of checked luggage (max 30kg/66lbs each) and 1 hand luggage (max 9kg/20lbs).
  • 6.2 Excess Fees: $50 XCD per additional piece. Unaccompanied luggage is $50 XCD per piece.
  • 6.3 Restrictions: Cargo must not be disguised as luggage. We reserve the right to inspect all bags and refuse items deemed hazardous or commercial in nature.

7. Schedule and Cancellations

  • 7.1 Variations: Schedules are subject to change without notice due to weather, mechanical issues, or safety requirements.
  • 7.2 Cancellation by Us: If we cancel a trip, our liability is strictly limited to:
    • (a) Re-booking you on the next available service, OR
    • (b) Issuing a refund for the unused portion of the ticket.
  • 7.3 No Consequential Loss: We are not liable for costs related to missed flights, hotel bookings, or other onward travel arrangements.

8. Refunds and Passenger Cancellations

  • 8.1 Passenger Cancellation: * Cancellations >48 hours before departure: Refund minus $60 fee (Standard) or 50% fee (Special Fares).
    • Cancellations less than 48 hours: Non-refundable; $30 change fee applies for rescheduling.
  • 8.2 Forfeiture: No-shows or cancellations after the scheduled departure time result in total forfeiture of the fare.
  • 8.3 Claims: All refund requests must be submitted in writing within 30 days of the travel date.

9. Safety and Conducto

  • 9.1 Right of Refusal: We may deny passage to any person who is intoxicated, disorderly, or deemed a safety risk.
  • 9.2 Instructions: Passengers must follow all lawful commands from the Captain and crew.
  • 9.3 Dangerous Goods: Firearms and hazardous materials are strictly prohibited without prior written authorization.

10. Special Assistance and Animals

  • 10.1 Medical: Passengers travel at their own risk. Medical facilities on board are limited.
  • 10.2 Assistance: Persons with reduced mobility must notify us 24 hours in advance. We reserve the right to refuse carriage if the vessel's design prevents safe embarkation.
  • 10.3 Pets: Must be crated with valid health certificates. Guide dogs require professional documentation dated within 30 days of travel.

11. Limitation of Liability

To the maximum extent permitted by law, the Carrier shall not be liable for:

  • Death, injury, or illness (unless caused by proven gross negligence of the Carrier)
  • Loss or damage to luggage, valuables, or perishables.
  • Any indirect, special, or consequential damages including loss of profit or business.

12. Governing Law

These Terms are governed by the Laws of Montserrat. Any disputes shall be subject to the exclusive jurisdiction of the Montserrat courts.